The Ultimate Wireless HiFi Speakers
LS50 Wireless II is more than a high-performance loudspeaker; it’s the perfect all-in-one speaker system, streaming from any source thanks to wireless compatibility with AirPlay 2, Chromecast, and more, plus wired connections for your TV, games console, and turntable. Great sound, no strings attached.
KEF’s LS50 passive stand-mount loudspeaker is something of a legend in hi-fi community. This is the second generation of the iconic reference speaker which brings in into the modern times with the Uni-Q driver array, wireless connectivity and steaming technology as one would expect in the modern prosumer Hi-Fi market.
UNI-Q
The LS50 Wireless II comes with KEF’s breakthrough Uni-Q driver array. By placing the tweeter at the centre of the midrange and bass cone, it radically improves stereo imaging. This not only makes music sound clear, detailed and lifelike, it does so across a wider audio band.
DESIGN
This second-generation LS50, follows the same iconic design architecture as the original. Its classic form is utilitarian yet contemporary. The design was a collaboration between Simon Davies and KEF Industrial Design Team. Davies led the KEF Industrial Design Team from 2000 through to 2018. He was responsible for key product designs including LS50/LS50 Wireless and the Reference and R Series.
KEF LS50 Wireless II available colourways.
LS50 Wireless II is available in three matte finishes, carbon black, titanium grey, and mineral white, as well as a rarely seen Special Edition in Crimson Red. All colour-ways featuring a contrasting colour to highlight the beauty of the UniQ driver. The top-mounted touch panel is convenient yet stylish. A handy remote is also included for when the speaker is out of reach.
LS50 Wireless Vs. LS50 Wireless II
Improved sound quality, better connectivity and usability thanks to the brand new W2 wireless platform. More built in streaming platforms, Multi-Room sharing, KEF Connect; new app for functionality, larger amplifier (from 460W to 760W), updated uniQ driver with M.A.T technology. Metamaterial Absorption Technology is a truly revolutionary tool in the KEF acoustic armoury, Metamaterial Absorption Technology (MAT™) is a highly complex maze-like structure that eliminates unwanted sound from the rear of driver, resulting in a purer, more natural performance. For true audiophiles you can read here for more technical information.
The new LS50 Wireless II speakers also come with a new and improved app, which in my view has a more intuitive UI and the previous the issues of the older app seem to be rectified. However considering the LS50 Wireless II supports AirPlay 2, Google Chromecast and Bluetooth you may choose not to use the app all together understandably.
KEF also offers optional KEF S2 Floor stands, which are designed specifically for the LS50 model. Sturdy and stylish, the build quality is outstanding, they feature an integrated cable management that allows wires to be hidden (a nice touch), as well quality annodized spike discs to protect wooden floors. The S2 Floor stands are a must for any home theatre setup.
S2 Floor stands (HK$3,280, £400, US$449, AU$800 per pair).
The LS50 Wireless II sound is rich and detailed with pronounced balance and true audio that is without any enhancements or reproduction. No pre-amplifier is required to connect to your desired source.
On the top of the primary speaker is a touch-sensitive control panel that is illuminated, here you can turn the on/off the speakers, cycle through different connectivity options, and adjust the volume including mute. A mode indicator at the top of the control panel lets you know the audio source to which you’re connected, whether that’s Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, TV, optical, coaxial or auxiliary.
The KEF LS50 Wireless II also come with a traditional infrared remote control and app, with the same access to configuration options.
Image Credit: KEF
Illuminated touch sensitive control panel.
CONNECTIVITY
Apple AirPlay 2 (Early 2019).
Spotify Connect (November 2018).
TIDAL.
Bluetooth® 4.2 with Qualcomm aptX™.
Digital input (TOSLINK).
3.5mm auxiliary input.
DLNA Compliant.
Roon tested.
Subwoofer output.
Dedicated app for iOS and Android.
KEF’s LS50 Wireless II has the appeal of an all-in-one stereo system over the complicated and expensive Hi-Fi Systems of Audiophiles and professionals working with sound.
The LS50 Wireless II provides high level reference audio quality, with a warm and balanced sound. The speakers look great and will seamlessly blend into any interior with their 4 colour options available. The latest M.A.T technology and inputs will satisfy all your audio needs. Perfect for the dedicated home Hi-Fi set up or as speakers for an entry/mid level home theatre environment for enthusiasts alike.
PROS
Exceptional audio quality.
Big improvement in performance over LS50 Wireless I .
Clean and punchy sound.
All-encompassing modern connectivity.
CONS
No built-in voice assistant.
Bass could be deeper (especially for visual media consumption).
App UX could be improved.
Pricing is on the mid/high end of the category.
PRICE: HKD$21,800 / AU$4,295 / US$2,499 / £2,250.
For more information or to purchase: hk.kef.com/products/ls50-wireless-2
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